Big ideas Factory at Tumbalong Park

Storytime Science takes story time off the page and into the world of hands-on science, experiments and crafts.

Little ones can listen to a story, then get stuck into STEM activities inspired by the characters and themes. After reading Philip Bunting’s Give Me Some Space!, kids can make their own solar system and use a torch and sphere to explore the phases of the moon.

Or, after The Speedy Sloth by Rebecca Young, they can create a climbing sloth, rank animals from fastest to slowest and discover what it might feel like to hang upside down all day.

It’s drop-in, so there’s no need to start at the beginning. Jump into an activity at any stage, or take a breather with a book in the reading nook.

Ready to get hands-on? The Creative Construction Zone lets kids make, build and experiment with science-inspired creations.

Younger children can sit down and make their own science toy, with examples including a kaleidoscope, balancing bird or whirligig. Activities take around 5–15 minutes and are suitable for children aged 3 and up.

Older kids can step into a mini construction experience, complete with a high-vis vest and safety goggles, before getting on the tools to build their very own toolbox.

Get hands-on with coding and robotics at the Robotics Lab, where kids can learn to program an Edison robot and put their problem-solving skills to the test.

Starting with the basics, participants can work their way through a series of stations, learning how to program their robot to follow a circuit, avoid obstacles and create different designs using LEGO.

As they progress, they’ll combine hardware engineering with software creativity, eventually teaching their robot to create a unique masterpiece to take home.

With several stations to explore, it’s a drop-in activity, so kids can jump in, get coding and work their way through the challenges at their own pace. Participants who complete the final station will receive a Robot Skills Certificate.

Calling all young engineers, makers and creative thinkers! Get hands-on with a team from Reverse Garbage and help build a replica of Sydney’s iconic Pyrmont Bridge using reclaimed and recycled materials.

Drop in anytime to add to the interactive sculpture and see how creativity, engineering and environmental awareness can come together. Because sometimes, the best things can be built from materials that might otherwise go to waste.

Keep your eyes peeled because a humanoid robot will be exploring Tumbalong Park! Kids can meet this amazing robotic friend as it roams the park, waving hello, interacting with visitors, showing off its clever moves and posing for photos.

This free-play space invites young minds to build, explore and problem-solve through hands-on activities.
Kids can get creative with a variety of oversized and tabletop building blocks, constructing everything from towering structures to imaginative creations. They'll also enjoy a selection of giant lawn games and brain-teasing puzzles that encourage teamwork, critical thinking and friendly competition.
 

Darling Harbour aims to deliver an inclusive and accessible experience:

• Easy navigation: Find accessible pathways into Tumbalong Park. Check the Darling Harbour map for overall accessibility.
• Accessible toilets: Find conveniently located accessible toilets, about 150 meters from both sides of Tumbalong Park.
• Stable footing: The Tumbalong Park event area features grass and Supa Trac flooring, designed for stability. (Note: grass may be muddy/slippery.)
• Helpful staff: Look for the Darling Harbour team in colorful or NSW Government logo shirts – they're here to assist!
• Sensory-friendly room: The calming sensory room is an immersive experience in a purposefully designed multisensory environment that engages the senses in a positive way.